3. Lance Franklin

Two Dockers almost stop Franklin, the players' No.3. All pictures: AFL Photos

Franklin produced his best season as a Swan in 2016, playing further up the ground but still having a massive impact on the scoreboard, booting 81 goals in 26 games. It was his best return since 2011, but the added extras in Franklin's game now are what make him the competition's best forward. By pushing up the ground, Franklin averaged a career-high 4.46 inside 50s and 11.3 uncontested possessions. John Longmire can pull the trigger and send Franklin into the midfield whenever he likes, knowing he could change the game.

2. Nat Fyfe

Fyfe in full flight - a sight much missed by fans in 2016. Pictures: AFL Photos

The players have not forgotten about the elevation in Fyfe's game in 2015, keeping him in their top two despite a 2016 ruined by injury. The 25-year-old managed just four and a half games before reinjuring the left leg he broke during the 2015 finals series, but he is back and seems determined to regain his No.1 mantle. Fyfe has also been handed the Fremantle captaincy as the club rebuilds. Revered for his training standards and ambition, it would hardly surprise to him reach a new level in 2017.

1. Patrick Dangerfield

Dangerfield trails Tigers in his wake on his way to No.1 spot in the AFL Players' Top 50. Pictures: AFL Photos

Dangerfield broke records on his way to the 2016 Brownlow Medal, polling a record 35 votes and matching the record nine three-vote games held by Fyfe and Greg Williams. The win gave him a clean sweep of individual awards, with the game's coaches and umpires all viewing him as the season's best - a verdict now matched by the AFL players themeselves. He averaged 31.7 disposals, 6.6 clearances, 16.2 contested possessions and 8.1 inside 50s. He did it all with a smile on his face and gave future free agents a blueprint on how to move clubs with class.